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What You Should Know About Carbon Monoxide

What You Should Know About Carbon Monoxide

Whether you heat with wood, oil, gas or coal, your heating system can produce carbon monoxide (CO), if it is not properly vented. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that is colorless, tasteless and very toxic. Some signs indicating the presence of carbon monoxide in your home are stuffy, stale or smelly air, very high humidity or soot coming from the fireplace or heating system.

What Are The Symptoms Of CO Poisoning?

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often confused with those of the flu. In fact, the highest incidents of poisoning occur during the flu season. These symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, loss of muscle control, physical weakness and mental confusion. High concentrations of carbon monoxide can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage and death. However, a victim may not experience any of these symptoms, or only a few. You should suspect carbon monoxide if the symptoms disappear when you leave your home.

How To Reduce The Risk Of CO Poisoning In Your Home

To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, have your heating system inspected and serviced by a licensed heating contractor, gas company or fuel supplier, preferably before the heating season begins. Have the service company also check your chimney or vent pipes for blockage. If a blockage exists, contact a professional chimney sweep immediately. It is also a good idea to make sure your home is adequately ventilated, particularly if you have insulated your home, have had major renovations, or enclosed your heating system to increase living space. (Adapted with permission of the Bay State Gas Co.)